IDP Preseason Position Battles: Baltimore Ravens ILBs

Heading into training camp, it’s worth taking a look at a few IDP position battles that have yet to be resolved. There is potential production available on the waiver wire depending on who wins each role. And knowing who’s competing in each battle will give you a leg-up when injuries inevitably occur.

Baltimore Ravens ILBs

During the 2016 season, the Ravens thought they had found their Inside LB duo for the next several years. Starting next to C.J. Mosley, former UDFA Zach Orr put together 132 total tackles, three interceptions and a forced fumble over 15 games, earning a 2nd Team All-Pro selection. Unfortunately, a congenital spine condition ended Orr’s career early, and Mosley was left without a wingman.

Last year, Baltimore gave 2nd Round Sophomore, converted OLB Kamalei Correa every opportunity to win the starting job. Correa played part-time snaps over the first four games before losing the job to former UDFA Patrick Onwuasor. Over the remaining 12 games, Onwuasor played between 39 and 66 snaps every game while Correa peaked at eight defensive snaps in Week 13. Onwuasor ended with 90 total tackles, 1.0 sack, and one forced fumble. Mosley put up, arguably, his best season as a pro with 132 total tackles, 1.0 sack, three forced fumbles, and 2 picks.

The Ravens added Kenny Young in the 4th Round of the NFL draft. The former Bruin has sideline to sideline speed. Young hasn’t gotten much hype during rookie draft season, but he only needs to beat out Onwuasor to start next to Mosley. BaltimoreRavens.com reported Correa has been playing snaps at his natural OLB position during OTAs as the Ravens try to get something out of their former 2nd Round pick.

The ILB role next to Mosley may be more valuable in 2018 as last year, Onwuasor would come off the field in sub-packages in favor of Lardarius Webb in big nickel packages. The Ravens released Webb in the offseason and don’t have a ready replacement on the roster at this point. Young can likely still be had off the waiver wire in a lot of leagues making him a cheap shot at solid production.

Keep checking back to DFF for my takes on the IDP position battles entering the preseason. You can also find me on Twitter @Ben_Glaser.